EAST LANSING- Michigan State will be facing Gardner-Webb in a dual meet on December 5 as the Spartans take another opportunity to measure how they stack up early on this season. This dual meet will allow MSU to continue developing their lineups, improve their consistency, and develop a rhythm leading into the rest of December for them. 

The Spartans will execute their strategies of focusing on executing strong transitions, getting on the board from a neutral position, and not allowing their opponents to score on them from the mat in this dual meet. These elements have played an integral role in the success of MSU so far. 

There will be several potential swing weights for this dual meet for both teams, as the depth of each team and the pressure of each team will factor into MSU gaining positive swing weights.

At the lower and middle weight classes, Gardner-Webb will have the advantage of employing its strength and speed against Michigan State. There will likely be many close matches at the beginning, and much of the success will rely on the quality of hand fighting and the use of riding time to control these match outcomes.

Both teams will use this dual meet to try to build momentum going forward, as Michigan State takes the opportunity to hone its skills while wrestling on the road.

The atmosphere of the Paul Porter Arena will contribute to the excitement of the night. Gardner-Webb’s objective is to take advantage of its home support to build momentum and develop a sense of confidence across the roster. Michigan State’s goal, on the other hand, will be to show poise, discipline, and efficiency on the road, characteristics that will become increasingly important as the schedule tightens.

The dual meet established a base for both programs as they move into the month of December. The Spartans will be looking to take the next step with a positive performance as they transition toward future Big Ten competition, while Gardner-Webb sees this match as an opportunity to meet the challenge and evaluate their full roster before they enter into the next phase of their season. 

Both Michigan State and Gardner-Webb know how vital these early season opportunities are both programs. Friday’s match will provide both programs. Friday’s match will be provide both programs with a great chance to get a jump on the upcoming weeks.  

Michigan State Wrestling will be facing Gardner-Webb on Friday, December 5, at 6 p.m. at Paul Porter Arena.